My journey on becoming and being a bandster. (Having the lapband procedure.) Hopefully it will not only help me in my journey and in reflection, but others that are considering lapband as a viable option for weightloss.

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Wish is a Four Letter Word

I was cooling down from my long training run on Saturday when this lady I had passed previously said to me, "I wish I had your energy." Even after all this time, I get taken off guard and am not quite sure what to say. I ended up saying something like, I've been working at it for some time. She said in return that she'd like to get there. I said to her that you honestly can get there and we chatted about how.

Showing up is 51% of the battle. I think it's more than half the battle to get to your workout. I think of all the reasons (excuses) why I can't (don't want to workout) and I can come up with plenty! Think about it, who really drags themself to a workout, gets there, and then turns around and goes home????

Have the right equipment for your activity of choice. For example, walking really isn't "just walking". Longer distances, faster pace, etc. really does require good shoes. Shoes with the right fit and right support for you. Make sure the rest of your clothes are comfortable and you are dressing for the weather in layers.One other thing I didn't share, but I think is important. - protect "the girls"! Get a good sports bra.

Don't overdo it. No one is going to get out there the first day and run a long distance. If you do, you will hate it and you will feel sore as crap. Consider trying a program such as c to 5K. Personally, I started with time. I said I will walk X amount of time regardless of the distance covered and went from there.

Consistency is key. All the other pointers contribute to consistency. If you show up, are comfortable, and don't overdo it (so you don't hate it), you will be consistent. Does that mean everyday? Nope. It doesn't even mean 6 days a week or even 5. Figure out what is realistic and do it. (I suggest starting out with 3 days a week increasing to 5 days over time).

Change "I wish" to "I can". Wish is a four letter word. I believe that unless there is something that physically prevents a person from achieving a weightloss or fitness goal that it's possible. You just have to want it, do the work, and believe (I can do it!) . Hell, I am trying to take my own advice on this one in regard to the half marathon! If I don't think I can do it, I guarantee that I won't be able to!

That made me think of something else, I read frequently on blogs "I hate exercise". Honestly, I don't think people "hate exercise", I think they hate what they are doing or possibly it's one of the other things I've talked about that's contributing to these feelings.

If you find yourself hating the activity, try another one! Keep on trying different ones until you find one you like. Oh, and one other thing, please consider hanging in there for a while on whatever you choose. Anything that is "new" or "hard" is going to take a bit of time (Are you thinking: "I can't do this?" If so, knock it off!!!!). Give whatever you choose a couple weeks and you might surprise yourself and find yourself thinking "I kinda like this!" "I can do this!" or some other thought that may take you off guard....off guard in a good way!

And on a band note, it's a tool, a piece of equipment, but the rest of it is up to you. If you think about it, these items can be skewed a bit and apply. Believing in yourself, consistency, etc.

Thanks for the chat to the lady on the trail and I hope to see you out there again!